Tree Roots Ruining Your Lawn? Here's How to Fix It

David ParkPublished October 9, 2026

Exposed tree roots are one of the most frustrating lawn problems. They make mowing difficult, create tripping hazards, and kill grass growing near them. But removing these roots can seriously harm your tree — here's how to handle the situation properly.

Why Tree Roots Surface

Most tree roots grow in the top 12-18 inches of soil. As trees mature, these roots expand outward and upward, eventually pushing through the surface. Contributing factors include:

Shallow soil: Compacted or thin soil layers force roots upward
Erosion: Rain and wind wash away topsoil, exposing roots
Tree species: Maples, willows, and poplars have naturally shallow root systems
Overwatering: Excess moisture near the surface encourages shallow root growth

What NOT to Do

Never cut or remove surface roots. These are vital feeder roots that absorb water and nutrients. Cutting roots larger than 2 inches in diameter within the tree's drip line can cause significant stress, disease entry points, and even tree death.

Don't cover roots with more than 2 inches of soil. Adding thick layers of soil over roots suffocates them by blocking oxygen exchange, potentially killing the tree.

Solution 1: Ground Cover Plantings

Replace grass with shade-tolerant ground covers that thrive around tree roots without competing aggressively:

Hostas: Broad-leaved perennials that thrive in deep shade
Creeping Jenny: Low-growing, spreads quickly in moist shade
Sweet Woodruff: Fragrant, produces small white flowers in spring
Pachysandra: Evergreen, dense coverage, excellent erosion control
Wild Ginger: Native ground cover with attractive heart-shaped leaves

Solution 2: Organic Mulch Ring

Create a 3-4 inch layer of shredded bark mulch in a wide ring around the tree base (at least 3-6 feet in diameter). Benefits include:

Protects roots from mower and foot traffic damage
Retains soil moisture during dry periods
Moderates soil temperature extremes
Eliminates the need to mow around roots
Gradually improves soil structure as it decomposes

Mulching rule: Keep mulch 2-3 inches away from the tree trunk. Piling mulch against the bark ("volcano mulching") promotes rot and pest damage.

Solution 3: Raised Planter Beds

Build a shallow raised bed (6-8 inches high) around the tree base using natural stone or rot-resistant timber. Fill with quality topsoil and plant shade-loving perennials. This elevates the growing surface above the roots while maintaining adequate oxygen.

Solution 4: Selective Root Pruning (Last Resort)

If roots create genuine safety hazards (tripping on walkways), consult an arborist about selective root pruning. This should be done in late fall or winter when the tree is dormant, and only on roots outside the critical root zone (the area beneath the canopy drip line).

Long-Term Prevention

When planting new trees, choose species with deep taproot systems (oaks, hickories) rather than shallow-rooted species. Ensure adequate distance between trees and lawn areas — a mature tree's root spread typically equals 2-3 times the canopy width.